Cities and Towns in Delta County, Michigan

Founded in 1843, Delta County is one of 83 counties in the state of Michigan. Historically, Delta County was formed from part of Mackinac County and unorganized territory. The city of Escanaba is the county seat. With FIPS code of 41, Delta County has a population of 36,826 and area of 1,992 square miles (5,159 km²).

List of all cities in Delta County, MI alphabetically

City/Town	Postal Code	Area Code
Bark River, MI	49807	906
Brampton, MI	49837	906
Cornell, MI	49818	906
Escanaba, MI	49829	906
Garden, MI	49835	906
Gladstone, MI	49837	906
Hardwood, MI	49807	906
Nahma, MI	49864	906
Perkins, MI	49872	906
Rapid River, MI	49878	906
Rock, MI	49880	906
Schaffer, MI	49807	906
Wells, MI	49894	906

Major Cities and Towns in Delta County, Michigan

1. Escanaba

Area, Population, and Zip Codes

• Area: 16.5 square miles
• Population: Approximately 12,450 (2020 Census)
• Zip Code: 49829
• Latitude: 45.7455° N
• Longitude: 87.0646° W

Location and History

Escanaba, the county seat of Delta County, is located on the northern shore of Lake Michigan’s Little Bay de Noc. Established in the mid-19th century, Escanaba began as a small logging and fishing settlement. The town grew rapidly with the development of iron ore mining in the Upper Peninsula and the construction of a deep-water port that made it a key shipping hub for the Great Lakes. Escanaba played a significant role in transporting iron ore and lumber, which spurred its economic development. Today, it remains a bustling community with a blend of industry, recreation, and tourism.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Escanaba is served by the Escanaba Area Public Schools, with Escanaba Senior High School being the primary educational institution. Notable landmarks include the Sand Point Lighthouse, built in 1867, which offers visitors a glimpse into the maritime history of the region. Ludington Park, located along the waterfront, is one of the largest city parks in Michigan and offers scenic trails, a beach, and picnic areas. The Delta County Historical Museum showcases the area’s rich industrial and cultural history. The annual U.P. State Fair, held in Escanaba, is one of the state’s oldest fairs and draws visitors from across Michigan.

2. Gladstone

Area, Population, and Zip Codes

• Area: 7.9 square miles
• Population: Approximately 4,973 (2020 Census)
• Zip Code: 49837
• Latitude: 45.8525° N
• Longitude: 87.0212° W

Location and History

Gladstone, known as the “Year-Round Playground,” is located just north of Escanaba, along the shore of Little Bay de Noc. It was established in the 1880s as a railroad town and was originally called Saunders Point before being renamed in honor of British Prime Minister William Ewart Gladstone. The town grew with the expansion of the iron ore and lumber industries, similar to other communities in the region. Gladstone’s location on the bay and access to rail and shipping routes made it a crucial point for transporting goods. Today, the city is known for its outdoor recreation opportunities, particularly for boating, fishing, and hiking.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Gladstone is served by Gladstone Area Schools, with Gladstone High School being the primary educational facility. Major landmarks include Van Cleve Park, a beautiful waterfront park offering a swimming beach, playground, and picnic areas. Gladstone Bay Campground provides camping facilities with stunning views of Little Bay de Noc. Rapid River Falls Park, located nearby, features a series of picturesque waterfalls and hiking trails. The annual Gladstone Fourth of July Celebration includes parades, fireworks, and family activities. The Gladstone Sports Park is a popular spot for skiing and snowboarding in the winter and offers mountain biking trails in the summer.

3. Bark River

Area, Population, and Zip Codes

• Area: 1.24 square miles
• Population: Approximately 1,589 (2020 Census)
• Zip Code: 49807
• Latitude: 45.7144° N
• Longitude: 87.3044° W

Location and History

Bark River is a small, rural community located west of Escanaba. The village was founded in the late 19th century and developed as an agricultural center, with dairy farming and potato farming playing key roles in its economy. Bark River is named after the nearby river, which flows into Lake Michigan. Over the years, the village has maintained its rural character, with a strong emphasis on agriculture and community life. Today, Bark River is a quiet, close-knit community that serves as a gateway to the outdoor recreational opportunities offered in Delta County.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Bark River is part of the Bark River-Harris School District, with Bark River-Harris High School serving the educational needs of the community. Landmarks in the village include the Bark River International Raceway, which hosts off-road racing events, attracting visitors from across the Midwest. The nearby Hiawatha National Forest provides opportunities for hiking, camping, and wildlife observation. Bark River Park offers a playground, picnic areas, and a venue for community events. The Bark River Potato Festival, held annually, celebrates the town’s agricultural heritage with a parade, food vendors, and live entertainment.

4. Rapid River

Area, Population, and Zip Codes

• Area: 1.56 square miles
• Population: Approximately 1,611 (2020 Census)
• Zip Code: 49878
• Latitude: 45.9278° N
• Longitude: 86.9703° W

Location and History

Rapid River is a small, unincorporated community located along US-2 on the shores of Little Bay de Noc. Founded in the late 19th century, it grew as a logging and fishing town, with the nearby river serving as a vital resource for transporting timber. The town’s name comes from the Rapid River, which flows into the bay and is known for its swift current. Although its logging industry has declined, Rapid River has remained a popular destination for fishing and outdoor activities due to its proximity to the Hiawatha National Forest and the abundant waters of Lake Michigan.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Rapid River is part of the Rapid River Public Schools, with Rapid River High School being the central educational institution. Notable landmarks include the Rapid River Falls Park, where visitors can enjoy waterfalls, hiking trails, and picnicking. Little Bay de Noc is a premier spot for walleye fishing, drawing anglers from across the region. The Rapid River Lions Club Park provides community recreational facilities and hosts events throughout the year. Rapid River Knife Works, a local business, is renowned for its handcrafted knives and serves as both a shop and a museum. The town’s annual Walleye Tournament is a significant event for fishing enthusiasts.

5. Nahma

Area, Population, and Zip Codes

• Area: 1.98 square miles (unincorporated)
• Population: Approximately 500 (estimated)
• Zip Code: 49864
• Latitude: 45.8281° N
• Longitude: 86.6675° W

Location and History

Nahma is a historic community located on the northern shore of Big Bay de Noc, part of Lake Michigan. The town was founded in the late 19th century as a company town for the Bay de Noquet Lumber Company, which dominated the area’s economy. Nahma was a bustling lumbering community, with sawmills and logging operations providing jobs for residents. As the timber industry declined in the mid-20th century, Nahma’s population decreased, and the town transformed into a quieter, more rural area. Today, Nahma is known for its historical significance and scenic beauty, attracting visitors for its rustic charm and access to the outdoors.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Nahma is part of the Mid Peninsula School District, with students attending nearby schools in Rock. Key landmarks include the Nahma Inn, a historic hotel that dates back to the town’s lumbering days and now serves as a charming bed and breakfast. Nahma Golf Course is one of the oldest courses in the Upper Peninsula and offers beautiful views of Big Bay de Noc. The Nahma Marsh Trail provides opportunities for birdwatching and hiking. The Bay de Noc-Grand Island Trail passes through the area, offering scenic routes for hiking and snowmobiling. The Annual Nahma Music Fest brings the community together for live music and family-friendly activities.